The 22nd edition of the Film and Wine Festival is set to commence, offering a diverse programme that includes film screenings, short film sessions, and four wine tastings, alongside various cultural activities from 11 to 29 November.
The launch event was held at the municipal cinema, adorned with unique decorations, and featured the cultural councillor, Ángela Notario, and festival director, Paco Romero. Notario expressed gratitude for Romero's efforts, particularly as he has taken on greater responsibility following the dissolution of the film board, which has resulted in the festival's organisation now falling directly under the Culture Department.
Despite these changes, Notario praised Romero for successfully curating a programme that continues to blend cinematic offerings with wine-related events. The event also provided insights into a new exhibition being prepared at the municipal cinema in collaboration with the Lumière Foundation, although a public presentation date has yet to be announced. Notario revealed plans to transform the cinema into a film museum, aiming to establish it as a cultural reference point in the region.
Paco Romero detailed the festival's programme, noting that this year, due to the inability to hold the traditional poster competition, he created the promotional material with the assistance of artificial intelligence. The design symbolises the connection between film and wine, featuring an image of a woman’s face alongside a wine glass, illuminated in a style reminiscent of film noir. Additionally, a ball is included in the design, referencing the film La bola negra, one of the highlights of this year's festival.
Romero announced that the festival will kick off on Wednesday, 11 November, with the selection of the Audience Award “Jesús Onsurbe”. Among the most anticipated films is La bola negra, scheduled for screenings on 13, 14, and 15 November, with tickets priced at €5. This year’s wine tastings will feature participation from the La Mancha Denomination of Origin, Santa Catalina Cooperative, Bodegas Vega Demara, and for the first time, Bodega Romero from Ávila. As is customary, attendees of the short film sessions will receive a bottle of wine from local wineries, with tasting prices ranging from €5 to €10.
Tickets will be available from Monday, 9 November, starting at 17:00, for both films and wine tastings. They can be purchased at the Tourism Office (Don Diego), online, and at the cinema box office before each event. The organisers recommend buying tickets in advance to avoid queues and facilitate the work of staff.
In closing, Ángela Notario acknowledged the efforts of all those involved in organising the festival, particularly the cleaning staff, caretakers, and workers from the Tourism and Culture departments, stating, “Their involvement is crucial for the success of an event of this nature.”
